TV
In response to the controversial rolling out of chariots (Rath Yatra) held in New Delhi on days other than prescribed by Puri Jagannath Temple (the temple tradition), Odisha Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan criticised the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Monday for spreading rumors and politicising religious matters.
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The Law Minister assured that the State government is ensuring adherence to Lord Jagannath’s traditional practices.
According to sources, Law Minister Harichandan has responded to the recent controversy surrounding the unseasonal Rath Yatra in New Delhi. He strongly criticised the Opposition BJD, accusing them of merely spreading rumors for political gain.
Addressing media queries, the Law Minister stated that the State government is keeping a close watch on the situation and ensuring that the pulling of chariots complies with traditions. He emphasised that such an event had never been witnessed in New Delhi before. He added that steps would be taken to discourage such unauthorised practices in the future.
Adherence to Puri Jagannath Temple traditions
“The Government’s priority is to uphold the spiritual integrity and discipline laid down by Lord Jagannath’s traditions,” Minister Harichandan said. He also mentioned that wherever such unseasonal Rath Yatras have been held globally, the State government has attempted to find solutions through dialogue.
Taking a jibe at BJD, the Law Minister questioned what the previous (BJD-led) government had done in the last 24 years regarding such ‘sensitive’ issues. He implied that their silence and inaction contributed to the rise in such unsanctioned religious events.
“Whatever steps needed to be taken, the State government is vigilant and taking those. The process of unseasonal Rath Yatra wherever is being started and is coming to our knowledge, I want to clarify in clear terms that we are resorting to dialogue,” the Law Minister stated.
“Rath Yatra in Nuapada district was being held for the past several years, during the previous government. The current government had a discussion with them (the organisers), and they agreed to roll out the chariots as per Puri Jagannath Temple (the 12th-century Vaishnavite shrine) traditions,” the Law Minister added.
